Anne-Christine invites us to Pick A Word this week, one or more from this list – Comfortable, Growing, Crowded, Exuberant or Tangled. Then illustrate it with photos. I decided to share photos of our two Cocker Spaniels, Chester and Bentley, as they were growing up. (You are able to double click each image to view in full screen.)
“Where there is love there is life.” – Mahatma Gandhi
During their first several weeks together, Chester and Bentley stayed close to each other and were comfortable sleeping together. This was the beginning of the strong bond between them. (Bentley was 10 weeks old here and Chester 11 months.)
As a puppy, this was one of Chester’s favorite places to sleep. It had to be comfortable because he would spend hours there.
“Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction.” – Saint-Exupery
You never know what to expect when three strange dogs meet the first time. Surprisingly it turned out to comfortable event. This was taken when Chester (then 10 months old) and Bentley (8 weeks) first met, they were also introduced their father, “Diamond Jack”.
“The dog is the god of frolic.” – Henry Ward Beecher
A lost toy! As a baby, Bentley was an exuberant puppy. Lots of energy, always playing with his toys and Chester.
“It’s impossible to keep a straight face in the presence of one or more puppies.” – Unknown
This was a familiar scene for a while, Chester stood on the sidelines watching Bentley knocking the treats out of the rolling ball. After Ben did all the work, he moved in and helped himself!
“The dog is the perfect portrait subject. He doesn’t pose. He isn’t aware of the camera.” – Patrick Demarchelier
As they were growing up, they played a lot of games. Often times Ben enjoyed a good chew on an old sock. Next thing you know, Chester would crowd him and tiptoe in to steal the sock! Usually Ben outfoxed him and managed to keep his sock!
“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.” – Gilda Radner
It has been a little over seven years since these first pictures were taken. Now both dogs have white around their muzzles although their personalities and antics are still prevalent. Unfortunately yesterday morning when jumping off the sofa, Bentley hurt his knee, our veterinary thinks he may have torn the ACL. Four or five days from now will determine whether or not surgery is needed. (Fingers crossed it was not torn and will heal on its own!)
From where I am sitting right now, Chester just laid down next to Bentley, settled in and got comfortable. (As I approached with the camera, Ben decided to look up to see what was happening.) These two dogs are inseparable; they are devoted to each other and also our family.
“All his life he tried to be a good person. Many times, however, he failed. For after all, he was only human. He wasn’t a dog.” – Charles M Schulz